emergency action guide - southwestern michigan college

Southwestern Michigan College Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan

Southwestern Michigan College

2017-2018

Important Contacts

Call 911 to report any

emergency

Non-Emergency Assistance

269-782-1234

Campus Security

269- 782-2194

Building and Grounds

269-782-1383

Dowagiac Police Department

269-782-6689

Cass County Sheriff’s Office

269-445-1560

Michigan State Police

269-683-4411

Computer Services

269-782-1233

Media Relations

269-782-1457

Southwestern Michigan College Emergency Plan 2017

1

Contents Introduction and Purpose ................................................................................................................ 2

Goals ............................................................................................................................................... 2

Applicability and Scope .................................................................................................................. 2

Responsibility ................................................................................................................................. 2

Order of Succession ........................................................................................................................ 2

Emergency Operation Center Activation ........................................................................................ 3

Emergency Communications .......................................................................................................... 3

Media Inquiries ............................................................................................................................... 3

Emergency Protocols ...................................................................................................................... 4

Fire and Evacuation .................................................................................................................... 4

Medical Emergency .................................................................................................................... 6

Bomb Threat ............................................................................................................................... 7

Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter .................................................................................................. 9

Utility Failure and Natural Disaster .......................................................................................... 12

Severe Weather ......................................................................................................................... 13

Earthquakes ............................................................................................................................... 16

Shelter in Place/Safe Shelter ..................................................................................................... 17

Suspicious Package or Object ................................................................................................... 18

Appendix A ................................................................................................................................... 19

Public Weather Warning System Operation ............................................................................. 19

Appendix B ................................................................................................................................... 20

Bomb Threat Checklist ............................................................................................................. 20


2

Introduction and Purpose

Southwestern Michigan College is committed to the safety and well-being of its staff, students

and guests. Upholding this commitment requires planning and practice. This plan exists to satisfy

those needs and to outline the steps to be taken to prepare for and respond to an emergency

affecting the department or the College.

Goals

The goals of Southwestern Michigan College in responding to an emergency situation include:

The safety of all staff, students, and guests.

The physical and emotional well-being of staff, students, and guests.

The timely stabilization of an emergency situation.

The protection of Southwestern Michigan College facility, property, and the belongings

of staff, students, and guests.

Applicability and Scope

This plan applies to all employees of Southwestern Michigan College and any person occupying

the physical plant of Southwestern Michigan College; to include students, employees, and

guests.

The scope of this plan is intended to encompass all hazards. This plan may be consulted when

responding to any and all emergencies. When encountering a situation which has not been

expressly addressed in this plan, use good judgment and the guiding principles outlined below.

Responsibility The Southwestern Michigan College emergency plan is the responsibility of Office of Chief of

Staff. The Chief of Staff will review and update this plan at least once annually. Revisions will

be made as needed throughout the year. Any suggestions, comments, or questions should be

directed to the Chief of Staff.

Order of Succession Leadership authority during an emergency shall flow downward through the following list of

people:

1. Dr. David Mathews-President

2. Thomas Atkinson-Chief of Staff

3. Dr. David Fleming -Vice President of Instruction


3

Emergency Operation Center Activation

The Chief Of Staff Suite in the Second Floor of the Briegel Building is the designated location of

the primary Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for the college.

The EOC will be activated upon a directive of the President, the Chief of Staff or their designee.

Upon activation of the EOC all members of the Cabinet and Security Office will report to that

location to assist in it operation.

If the primary EOC is not available these members shall report to the Alumni Plaza which will

be the designated Rally Point to make a determination as to the location of the secondary EOC.

Emergency Communications

Means and Methods

Emergency Notification System (RAVE) – For Campus Wide Announcements

In all but extreme emergency situations, the President or designee shall direct and

authorize the use of the emergency notifications system.

In extreme emergency situations (i.e. life threatening conditions) designated personnel

shall have specific authority to operate the Emergency Notification system.

Designated personnel shall include the Chief of Staff and trained Security, Housing &

Computer Services staff.

Landline Telephones

Cell Phones & Text

Two-way Radios

Email

Fire Alarm Boxes

Outside Public Address and Weather Siren

The Weather Siren primary activator is the Dowagiac Department of Public Safety or

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indian Tribe. (See Appendix A)

Designated SMC staff may also activate the Siren and Public Address speaker in life

threatening emergencies

Media Inquiries

Inquiries from the media during or after an emergency will be addressed by the Coordinator of

Media Relations. The President &/or Chief Of Staff will be consulted in releasing any

information to the media. At any time the media can simply be referred to the Coordinator of

Media Relations.


4

Emergency Protocols

Fire and Evacuation

In the event that you discover a fire or smell smoke you should immediately activate the

fire alarm system to alert the occupants of the building of the situation. All persons

should cease all operations and exit in an orderly fashion. Special attention should be

given to individuals with disabilities in assisting them with relocating to an area of

refuge. All administrative and housing buildings on the SMC campus are equipped with

automatic smoke detectors. In the event that a fire alarm system activates please begin

evacuation efforts.

Fire extinguishers are distributed throughout all buildings on campus. To access a fire

extinguisher cabinet simply pull on the handle to open. Do not use fire extinguishers

unless the fire is approximately the size of a waste basket and you feel confident in your

ability to use the extinguisher. Persons should always keep themselves between the fire

and an exit. To use the fire extinguisher simply use the PASS method:

P – Pull the pin

A – Aim the nozzle

S – Squeeze the handle

S – Sweep at the base of the fire

When a FIRE ALARM sounds:

R – Report the fire immediately.

A – Activate the building fire alarm.

C – Contain by closing all doors to confine the fire and reduce oxygen.

E – Extinguish by knowing the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them.

1. Do not panic. In an orderly manner, walk to the nearest FIRE EXIT and go outside.

2. Know at least two ways out of the area you are in.

3. If you are not on the ground floor, head for the nearest stairwell.

4. Never use an elevator during an emergency.

5. Assist handicapped or the injured to an area of refuge.

6. Do not block the driveway or try to leave in your car. The Fire Department will be arriving

within minutes and will need a clear path to the building.

7. Gather with students/employees in your group, so it is easier to determine whether anyone is

missing.

8. Wait for instructions from Police, the Fire Department or a member of campus administration

about when it is safe to re-enter the building.


5

NOTE: If you become trapped in a building during a fire immediately call 911 or see if a

window is available. Place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.) or sheet outside the window as

a marker for rescue crews. If there is no window, stay near the floor where the air will be less

toxic. Shout at regular intervals to alert emergency crews of your location. DO NOT PANIC.

Building Evacuation

You should familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes posted in all campus buildings. If an

evacuation order is issued for your building, or if it were necessary to evacuate due to an

emergency, fully cooperate with Security/emergency personnel and:

Take only keys, wallets and essential belongings with you

If possible wear weather appropriate clothing

If you are the last one to exit your room close, and lock doors

Leave the building immediately

Do not investigate the source of the emergency

Walk, don’t run, to the nearest exit

Use stairs, not elevators

Assist people with special needs

If there is no immediate danger, persons with disability/mobility limitations should

shelter in place and 911 and Security (269) 782-1234 to report location and number of

people needing assistance

If there is imminent danger and evacuation cannot be delayed, the person with a

disability should be carried or helped from the building in the best and fastest manner

(the person with the disability is the best authority as to how to be moved out of the

building)

If you are unable to evacuate, call 911 & Security (1234) and report your location

As you make your way out, encourage those you encounter to exit as well

Follow instructions of Security or other identified emergency personnel

Wait for instructions before returning to your building after an evacuation


6

Medical Emergency

If someone is injured or becomes ill:

Stay Calm

Dial 911 and explain the type of emergency, the location, condition, and number of

victims

Let the dispatcher know of any safety hazards - chemical spill, fire, fumes, etc.

Do not hang up unless told to do so by the dispatcher

Contact Security @ 269-782-1234 (1234 on Dowagiac Campus Phones)

Do not move the victim unless there is danger of further injury if s/he is not moved

Render first-aid or CPR if you have been trained

Do not leave the injured person except to summon help

Comfort the victim until emergency medical services arrive

Have someone stand outside the building to flag down the ambulance and/or Security

when they reach the vicinity


7

Bomb Threat The presence of an explosive device and/or the reception of a bomb threat are situations that the

College must be prepared to confront in a calm and professional manner. Although many bomb

threats turn out to be false, they must be taken seriously to ensure the safety of the students,

faculty, staff and visitors at SMC.

A bomb threat could be written, received electronically (e-mail, text message), communicated

verbally or received by phone. The majority of bomb threats are delivered by telephone.

Generally, a bomb threat call is made for one of two reasons:

1. The caller has definite knowledge about the explosive device and wants to minimize

personal injury.

2. The caller wants to disrupt normal activities by creating anxiety and panic.

DO NOT evacuate immediately until police arrive and evaluate the threat. Many times it is safer

to stay inside of an office or classroom where you know that there are no suspicious objects, then

to expose yourself or others to an unknown environment (public accessible hallways or parking

lots).

DO NOT activate the fire alarm.

DO NOT touch or move or make a cell phone call around a suspicious package. Move away,

putting brick and mortar walls between you and the object.

Threat Received By Telephone

Take the caller seriously. Assume the threat is real.

If the call recipient is a work study, immediately have a regular employee take the call

If you have a digital phone, look for and record the originating phone number.

While the caller is speaking to you on the phone, fill out the "Bomb Threat Checklist.”

(Appendix B)

If possible, do not hang up the phone.

Have a co-worker call 911 and then Campus Security. If you are alone, call immediately

after hanging up.

Wait for the police to arrive and do not spread alarm while waiting

Make every attempt to:

Stay calm and indicate your desire to cooperate with the caller.

DO NOT antagonize, interrupt or challenge the caller.

Obtain as much information as possible. Prolong the conversation as long as possible.

Ask permission to repeat any instructions to make sure they were understood.

Attempt to determine the caller's knowledge of the facility.

Identify background noises.

Contact your Building Administrator.


8

Insure that the "Bomb Threat Checklist” is completed.

If directed to evacuate, follow building evacuation procedures.

Threat Received by E-Mail / Text Message

DO NOT delete the e-mail/text message.

Call Campus Security at 269 782-1234

Forward the e-mail as directed by Campus Safety.



Threat By Mail

Call Campus Safety @ 269 782-1234 or 911

Handle mail as minimally as possible.



Threat By Handwritten Note

Call Campus Safety @ 269 782-1234 or 911

Handle note as minimally as possible.

Contact the Building Administrator.



9

Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter

If a hostile intruder/active shooter is Outside your building:

Get to a room that can be locked; close and lock windows and doors

Turn off the lights

Try to get everyone down on the floor (so that no one is visible from outside the room)

Call 911. The Dispatcher will ask for, at least, the following information:

a. Your name

b. Location of the incident (be as specific as possible)

c. Number of shooters (if known)

d. Identification or description of shooter

e. Number of persons who may be involved

f. Your location

Stay in place (calls to come out may be the attacker attempting to lure you)

Do not respond to any voice commands until you are sure that they come from a Police

Officer or a Campus Security Officer

If a hostile intruder/active shooter is INSIDE your building:

Exit (get out of) the building immediately

Notify anyone you may encounter to exit the building immediately

Call 911. The Dispatcher will ask for at least the following information:

a. Your name

b. Location of the incident (be as specific as possible)

c. Number of shooters (if known)

d. Identification or description of shooter

e. Number of persons who may be involved

f. Your location


10

If exiting the building is not possible, the following actions are recommended:

Go to the nearest room or office

If you are locked out of all rooms, seek refuge in the nearest restroom or closet, lock

yourself in if possible, keep quiet and be prepared to defend yourself

Close and lock the door and/or block it (try barricading the door with desks and chairs)

Cover the door windows

Call 911 (the Dispatcher will gather information from you)

Keep quiet and act as if no one is in the room (silence cell phones)

DO NOT answer the door

Stay in place (calls from unfamiliar voices to come out may be the attacker attempting to

lure you)

Do not respond to any voice commands until you are sure that they come from a Police

Officer or a Campus Security Officer

If a hostile intruder/active shooter enters your office or classroom:

1. Try to escape, but if unable, you must take action to survive!! Make a quick survival

decision, either:

Try to overpower the hostile intruder/active shooter by force (use anything at your

disposal and fight for your life);

If someone other than yourself acts to overpower the hostile intruder/active shooter it is

recommended that you assist, as this will increase the chances of success and survival.

Other (usually less effective) Options

Try to hide; bear in mind that being hidden (i.e. behind a wooden door or dry walled

room) is not the same as being covered (i.e. behind a steel door),

Try to negotiate with the hostile intruder/active shooter (usually the least effective

measure),

Play dead (pretend to be unconscious)

If the hostile intruder/active shooter leaves your area, and as soon as it is safe to do so:

If you can, escape, going in the opposite direction of the intruder

Close and lock the door and/or block it (try barricading the door with desks and chairs)

Call 911 (if not on the line already)

DO NOT answer the door and stay in place behind cover

Do not respond to any voice commands until you are sure that they come from a Law

Enforcement Officer or a Campus Security Officer


11

If you decide to flee during a hostile intruder/active shooter situation:

No matter what the circumstances, make sure you have an escape route and plan in mind

Do not attempt to carry anything while fleeing

Do not attempt to remove injured people (leave wounded victims where they are and

notify authorities of their location as soon as possible)

Move quickly, keep your hands up high and visible

Follow the instructions of any Police Officers you may encounter

What to expect from responding police officers:

Law Enforcement Officers responding to an active shooter are trained in a procedure known as

"Rapid Deployment" and proceed immediately to the area in which shots were last heard. Their

purpose is to stop the shooting as quickly as possible. The first officers to arrive will not stop to

aid injured people; rescue teams composed of other officers and emergency medical personnel

will follow the first officers after areas have been secured to treat and remove injured persons.

Please understand that the police will be treating all those they encounter (including you) as

possible suspects. When you encounter the police:

Remain calm

Do as the officers tell you

Put down any bags or packages you may be carrying

Keep your hands up, empty (no cell phones or objects that can be mistaken as a weapon)

and visible at all times

If you know where the hostile intruder/active shooter is, tell the officers

Once out of harm’s way remain at whatever assembly point authorities designate

Keep in mind that the entire area is still a crime scene; police will usually not let anyone

leave until the situation is fully under control and all witnesses have been identified and

questioned

Do not leave until you have been interviewed and released


12

Utility Failure and Natural Disaster

Utility Failures

These may include electrical outages, plumbing failure/flooding, gas leaks, steam line breaks,

ventilation problems, elevator failures, etc. Building and Grounds has procedures and personnel

to deal with utility failures and resumption of service. For your personal safety, in the event of a

utility failure:

Remain calm

Immediately notify Security at 269-782-1234 (1234 from Campus phones)

If the building must be evacuated, follow the instructions on Building Evacuation

Unplug all electrical equipment (including computers) and turn off light switches

Use a flashlight: Do not light candles or use other kinds of flames for lighting

Laboratory personnel:

- Secure all experiments, unplug electrical equipment, and shut off research gases

prior to evacuating

- Close all fume hoods and chemical containers

Elevators:

- If passengers are trapped in an elevator, advise them to stay calm and tell them you

are getting help

- If it is safe for you to stay in the building, stay near the passengers until assistance

arrives

If you are trapped in an elevator, help will be there soon:

- Remain calm

- Use the Call Button of Phone to call for help

- Do not try to climb out or exit the elevator without assistance


13

Severe Weather

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Severe Weather Plan is to provide a course of action to be used

during severe weather events such as tornadoes, thunderstorms and winter storms to

minimize the potential for injury and loss of life that can result during severe weather.

This plan should be reviewed at least annually by all employees and building

administrators to ensure that everyone knows where the severe weather shelter areas are

and what to do when the severe weather warning systems are activated.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

A severe thunderstorm watch means weather conditions are such that a severe

thunderstorm could develop but has not at this time. Persons should remain alert for the

potential of severe weather.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

A severe thunderstorm warning means a severe thunderstorm has developed and will

probably affect those areas stated in the alert message. Persons should seek cover

immediately. If the warning includes a damaging winds warning (in excess of 70 mph)

then persons should follow the Tornado Warning guidelines.

Tornado Watch

A Tornado watch will be issued when weather conditions are such that a Tornado could

develop. Persons should remain alert for the potential for severe weather.

Tornado Warning/ Dangerous Winds Warning

When a tornado warning is issued this means a tornado has formed and was indicated by

weather radar or sighted, and may affect those areas stated in the alert. This warning will

trigger the weather siren and alerts from the National Weather Service. These procedures

may also be used when a weather event with at least 70 mph winds is likely.

All persons should go to their building's designated shelter area. Persons should monitor

for additional warnings.

Those persons identified shall activate the Emergency Notification (RAVE) system

alerting all of the SMC community.

All persons located outdoors should seek shelter indoors immediately. If shelter is not

available go to the lowest spot/ditch/culvert, kneel and cover your head with your arms.


14

Exterior doors should not be opened. Under no circumstances should persons leave

buildings during a Tornado warning.

During a tornado warning, persons should take one of two positions -- the preferred

position is kneeling with their head between their knees facing the wall, and the other is,

seated on the floor with their backs to the wall. In either case, they should be as low as

possible to reduce their potential for injuries from flying missiles or glass or debris. If

available, some form of covering should be used to protect heads, arms, and legs.

Building occupants should remain in the shelter area for at least that long unless a new

warning is issued and the sirens activate again, or the National Weather Service issues a

release. Remain alert for information. Remember, you typically have only three minutes

to reach a shelter so do not delay. Waiting can mean the difference between life and

death. Persons in the shelter should tune to local radio stations, their severe weather

radio, and/or internet warning systems for additional information.

At the notice of an all clear, persons responsible for operating the Emergency

Notification (RAVE) System shall issue an ALL CLEAR alert.

Once leaving the shelter area all persons should be aware of other safety hazards

including broken glass and sharp and unstable objects as well as downed power lines. At

this time persons should render emergency aid as needed.

Winter Storm

Winter Storms could affect the entire county at the same time. This type of emergency

poses a difficult response effort because of road conditions, which impede or prohibit

vehicle movement. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with a

major snowstorm or extreme cold weather. Winter storms can result in closed highways,

blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia. In the event severe weather such as

ice and snow are imminent, college officials will monitor weather conditions.

In the event of an overnight winter/severe storm the Chief of Staff monitors current

conditions, contacts local county officials and the forecast from the National Weather

Service and advises the President regarding road conditions.

Decision to Close or alter College Schedule

The President will decide whether to maintain the normal schedule, delay the normal

opening time, or close the College until conditions are safer. The President may delegate

this task to the Chief of Staff or other personnel.

If the President or designee alters the schedule or opts to close the college, they will

notify the SMC community via the Emergency Notification (RAVE) System as well as

through local media, the college website and through the established college phone trees.


15

Warning Points

The Dowagiac Department of Public Safety is the 24 hour point of warning and

notification for Southwestern Michigan College. They shall notify via weather siren any

weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

In addition to this warning point:

The college has established automated warning systems via their

Emergency Notification System upon certain weather warnings issued by

the National Weather Service.

Security Personnel shall be the primary personnel that will monitor

weather conditions on campus by using tools that are in place including

NWS weather radios, local media and internet solutions.

Housing Managers, as they are on campus 24/7, shall also monitor

conditions when alerted by the same systems (NWS radio, Local media,

Weather Sirens and Internet).

Weather Spotter Activation

Weather Spotters are individuals trained by the National Weather Service (NWS) to

physically look for and report hazardous weather.

When weather spotters are needed, the National Weather Service will alert Weather

Spotters directly or the County Emergency Manager and request the activation of the

weather spotters.

Weather Spotters that are activated shall communicate their findings via the Cass County

Emergency Operations Center, Cass County Central Dispatch or directly to the NWS

through established channels.

Reporting Damage to the National Weather Service

Basic storm damage reports from observers on the ground will be provided to the

National Weather Service in real time to ensure that all relevant information to

forecasting is available.

Weather spotter personnel and emergency responders will provide preliminary damage

reports from the field to Cass County Central Dispatch.

The information provided will be passed on to the National Weather Service via

established communication channels.


16

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are more common in the western United States, but they have occurred in the

Michiana area as well. In the event of an earthquake:

Stay away from large windows, shelving systems, or tall room partitions

Get under a desk, table, door arch, or stairwell

If none of these is available: move against an interior wall and cover your head with

your arms

Remain under cover until the movement subsides

After the shaking stops, survey your immediate area for trapped or injured persons

and ruptured utilities (water, gas, etc.)

If damage has occurred in your area, inform Security immediately at 269-782-1234

(1234 from Campus phones)

If it is safe to do so, remain at your location and await further instructions from

College personnel

Do not evacuate until instructed by emergency personnel

Laboratory personnel:

- Exit the lab to the corridor

- Duck and cover near an interior wall

If out in the open:

- Stay in an open area away from buildings, power lines, trees or roadways

- If in a car, pull over and stop. Do not park under an overpass or near a building. Be

cautious about driving again, in the event roads are damaged

After an earthquake:

- Put on enclosed shoes to protect against broken glass

- If the power is out use a flashlight. Do not light a match or candle

- Be alert for safety hazards such as fire, electrical wires, gas leaks, etc.

- Check on others. If there are injuries or other urgent problems, report them to 911 --

- Give or seek first aid. Assist any disabled persons in finding a safe place for them

- Evacuate if the building seems unsafe or if instructed to do so:

- Use stairs, not elevators

- Unplug small electrical appliances

- Bring keys, purses, wallets, warm clothing

- Be prepared for aftershocks

- Cooperate with emergency personnel, keep informed, and remain calm


17

Shelter in Place/Safe Shelter

Shelter in Place is useful when evacuation is not an option. Refuge is sought in an interior room

with few or no windows.

It may be necessary to shelter in place following the intentional or accidental release of chemical,

biological, or radiological contaminants into the environment. Shelter in place may also be

necessary in the event of a hostile intruder on campus.

Shelter in place procedures will be initiated through the various notification systems used by

SMC.

Stop classes and/or other operations in the building.

If there are visitors in the building, provide for their safety by asking them to stay—not

leave. When public safety officials provide directions to shelter in place, they want

everyone to take those steps immediately, where they are.

Close and lock all doors, windows, and other openings to the outside.

If necessary/possible, turn off power to the building.

Select interior room(s) above the ground floor with the fewest windows and vents. The

room(s) should be large enough for everyone to sit comfortably and quietly. Use multiple

rooms if necessary.

Lock the door to any rooms being used and draw the curtains/shades or cover the

windows. You should not be visible from the outside or from the corridor.

Ideally, choose room(s) with hardwired telephones as cellular networks may be

unavailable. Use these phones to report any emergencies.

Stay away from windows and doors.

In the event of a hostile intruder, remain absolutely quiet and follow steps outlined in the

“Hostile Intruder/Active Shooter” section.

Remain calm and await further instructions.

DO NOT leave the room until directed to do so by a public safety official.


18

Suspicious Package or Object

If you have any reason to believe that a letter or parcel is suspicious, DO NOT take a chance or

worry about embarrassment. Call Security immediately at 269-782-1234 or 911.

DO NOT touch the package or object.

DO NOT tamper with the package or object.

DO NOT attempt to move the package or object.

DO NOT open the package or object.

DO NOT put the package or object in water or an enclosed space, such as a drawer or

box.

Isolate the package or object and evacuate the immediate area.

Characteristics of Suspicious Packages

Special deliveries, foreign mail, or air mail.

Restrictive markings such as “Confidential” or “Personal.”

Excessive postage.

Handwritten or poorly typed addresses.

Incorrect titles.

Misspelled words.

Stains or discoloration on the package.

Excessive weight.

Rigid, lopsided, or uneven envelopes.

Protruding wires or aluminum foil.

Excessive tape or string.

Visual distractions such as illustrations.

No return address.


19

Appendix A

Public Weather Warning System Operation

https://www.swmich.edu/sites/swmich.edu/files/handbook/DFD_Siren_Protocol.pdf


20

Appendix B

Bomb Threat Checklist

https://www.swmich.edu/sites/swmich.edu/files/handbook/Bomb_Threat_Checklist.pdf

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